Quick answer: Foreign investors can secure a 10-year, self-sponsored UAE Golden Visa by purchasing Dubai real estate worth AED 2 million or more. The property can be ready or off-plan, held in one unit or combined across a portfolio, and the visa allows unrestricted family sponsorship and unlimited time abroad.
Securing long-term UAE residency has evolved from a complex administrative hurdle into a streamlined, high-reward strategy for global investors. At the center of this transformation is the UAE Golden Visa via Real Estate Investment — a 10-year renewable residency permit designed for international property buyers.
Whether you’re expanding a global portfolio or looking for a stable base for your family, here’s the complete breakdown of Golden Visa requirements through Dubai real estate.
Who Qualifies for the 10-Year Golden Visa Through Property?
To qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa through real estate, property investors must meet specific criteria set by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP):
- Minimum property value: Total real estate portfolio value of AED 2 million (approx. USD 545,000) or more.
- Off-plan and ready properties both qualify: Eligible properties include completed units and off-plan developments from DLD-approved developers, such as Mirha Homes Developments.
- Mortgaged properties: If the property is mortgaged, the investor must have paid a minimum of AED 2 million in equity directly to the bank or developer before applying.
- Combined portfolios count: Qualification doesn’t require a single unit. Investors can combine multiple properties — for example, two AED 1 million apartments — to reach the AED 2 million threshold.
Golden Visa vs. Standard Residency Visa: Key Differences
| Feature | 2-Year Residency Visa | 10-Year Real Estate Golden Visa |
| Duration & renewal | 2 years, tied to employer/company | 10 years, self-sponsored and renewable |
| Travel restrictions | Invalidated after 6+ months outside UAE | No restriction on time spent abroad |
| Family sponsorship | Spouse and children under age limits | Spouse, children of any age, and domestic staff |
| Estate continuity | Tied to sponsor’s active status | Family members can remain in the UAE for the visa’s duration if the primary holder passes away |
How to Apply: The Golden Visa Process, Step by Step
- Obtain your Title Deed or Oqood certificate. Ready properties require a Title Deed; off-plan purchases require the Initial Contract of Sale or Oqood certificate.
- Apply for DLD clearance. Submit a Golden Visa nomination through the Dubai Land Department’s Cube service for valuation and approval.
- Complete medical fitness testing and Emirates ID biometrics. This includes standard blood tests, a chest X-ray, and biometric capture at an authorized medical center in Dubai.
- Receive your visa stamping and Emirates ID. Once approved, you receive the 10-year residency visa and physical Emirates ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the AED 2 million have to be in one property?
No. Investors can combine multiple properties to reach the AED 2 million threshold — for example, two units valued at AED 1 million each.
Can I qualify with an off-plan property?
Yes, off-plan developments from DLD-approved developers qualify, provided the total value meets the AED 2 million minimum.
What happens to my family if I pass away while holding the visa?
Sponsored family members can remain in the UAE for the remainder of the visa’s 10-year term.
Is there a limit on how long I can stay outside the UAE?
No. Unlike the standard 2-year residency visa, the Golden Visa has no restriction on time spent abroad.
Who can sponsor family members under this visa?
The primary Golden Visa holder can sponsor their spouse, children of any age, and domestic staff.
Start Your Golden Visa Journey
Mirha Homes Developments offers DLD-approved off-plan and ready residential projects across Dubai’s growth corridors, structured to meet Golden Visa investment thresholds. Explore current developments to find a property that fits your residency and investment goals.
